Sometimes, a salad can be more than just a bowl of greens, and the delightful Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a perfect example of this. This vibrant dish tantalizes with the sweet, juicy strawberries mingling freely with fresh spinach, forming a harmony of flavors and textures that dances on your taste buds. Add some crunchy pecans and creamy feta, and you’re in salad heaven, ready to impress at any dining occasion.
Picture this: a warm summer day, the sun shining, and you’re sitting outside with friends and family, laughter ringing in the air. You decided to whip up this fragrant Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans. As you take that first bite, you smile, knowing you’ve created something truly special. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even just a refined dinner at home, it’s a dish that brings people together with each delicious forkful.
Why You'll Love This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- This incredible Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans:
¾ cup raw pecans – These add a satisfying crunch and rich flavor; toast them for extra depth.
½ small red onion – Use this finely sliced onion to contribute a tangy contrast and vibrant color to the salad.
10 ounces fresh baby spinach – Tender and nutritious, spinach serves as the base, full of vitamins and minerals.
1 quart strawberries – Sweet and juicy, strawberries bring a refreshing lightness to the dish; make sure to hulled and quarter them.
¾ cup crumbled feta cheese – This creamy cheese adds a salty kick that complements the sweetness of the berries beautifully.
¼ cup balsamic vinegar – A key ingredient in the dressing, it contributes a rich, tangy sweetness.
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – For a luscious dressing; it also helps to enhance the flavors of the salad.
1 ½ tablespoons poppy seeds – These tiny seeds add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness to the mix.
1 ½ tablespoons honey – A natural sweetener that balances the salad flavors perfectly.
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a bit of bite to the dressing while enhancing its creaminess.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the salad.
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper – A touch of spice to round off the dressing beautifully.
How to Make Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans:
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the pecans in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until they smell fragrant and have a light tan color in the center when broken Open.
Step 2: Prepare the Onions
Place the sliced red onion in a bowl and cover with cold water. Let them soak while you prepare the rest of the salad; this will mellow their sharpness.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl or large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper until everything is well-combined. Take a moment to admire your handiwork.
Step 4: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large serving bowl, toss in the baby spinach, followed by the hulled and quartered strawberries. Drain the red onion and add this, too. Drizzle about half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure the leaves are coated evenly.
Step 5: Finish with Feta and Pecans
Add the crumbled feta cheese and the toasted pecans to the salad. Toss lightly to combine, allowing those delicious flavors to mingle without crushing the delicate spinach.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad immediately, with extra dressing on the side for those who want to drizzle on a little more. Enjoy this colorful, tasty Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans as an appetizer or side dish that will leave everyone craving more!
This Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans will not only charm your palate but also create memorable moments alongside your loved ones, making it a must-have in your salad repertoire.
You Must Know About Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- This showstopping Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans Cooking Process
Start by toasting the pecans to bring out their flavor, then prepare the dressing while the pecans cool. Next, assemble the salad with spinach, strawberries, and onions, followed by a drizzle of dressing for an evenly coated dish.
Add Your Touch to Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Feel free to customize your Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans by incorporating sliced apples for a crisp texture, swapping feta for goat cheese, or adding grilled chicken for a heartier meal that packs a protein punch.
Storing & Reheating Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving for that freshly tossed taste!
Chef's Helpful Tips for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
- This professional-quality Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing this salad for a potluck was a highlight of my year when a friend declared it was “the best salad he’d ever tasted.” Moments like that make cooking special.
FAQs About Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
What is Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a refreshing and vibrant dish combining fresh baby spinach, sweet strawberries, and crunchy pecans. Enhanced with crumbled feta cheese and dressed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is easy to prepare and perfect for various occasions. Its delightful balance of flavors and textures make it a favorite for picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this salad promises to impress everyone at the table.
How can I customize Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?
One of the best things about Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is its versatility. You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. For added sweetness, consider incorporating sliced apples or mandarin oranges. Instead of feta cheese, swap in goat cheese for a creamier texture. If you’re looking for a protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas can make the salad heartier. Feel free to experiment with nuts or seeds, too, to create a unique twist on this classic dish.
Can Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare certain elements of Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans ahead of time, which makes it a convenient option for busy days. You can wash and dry the spinach, slice the strawberries, and even chop the pecans in advance. However, it’s best to store the salad components separately and mix them just before serving. Keeping the dressing in a separate container will ensure that your salad stays fresh, crisp, and not soggy!
What are the health benefits of Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans?
Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans offers a plethora of health benefits. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like iron and calcium. Strawberries provide antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health. The healthy fats from pecans contribute to heart health, while the fiber aids digestion. This salad makes for a nutritious meal option that satisfies your taste buds while promoting overall well-being. Enjoying this dish means indulging in a blend of taste and nutrition in every bite.
Conclusion for Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans
In summary, the Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans is a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Its easy preparation and versatility allow you to customize it based on your preferences while providing numerous health benefits. Whether for a casual dinner or a special gathering, this salad is sure to impress your guests. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy this refreshing and nutritious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans!
Delicious Spinach Strawberry Salad with Pecans Recipe Easy to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the pecans on an ungreased baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until fragrant. Roughly chop the toasted pecans.
- Soak the sliced red onion in a bowl of cold water while preparing the salad.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, poppy seeds, honey, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and drained red onion. Drizzle with half of the dressing and toss to coat.
- Top the salad with feta and pecans, tossing lightly to combine. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side.
